Food Supply Security in the Event of a Blackout
The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has brought the security of food and energy supply into sharp focus. Federal Minister Leonore Gewessler and Federal Minister Norbert Totschnig therefore convened a Round Table to ensure preparedness in the event of an emergency.
The current food supply situation in Austria is secure. However, emerging potential challenges require timely preparation to ensure the country remains well equipped even in times of crisis.
At the Round Table, participants discussed the measures taken by the responsible authorities to prevent large-scale power outages (blackouts), the food retail sector’s preparations to maintain food supplies even in the highly unlikely event of a blackout, and the industry's initiatives to improve energy efficiency.
Representatives from the food retail sector, the social partners, the relevant federal ministries, the Austrian Association of Municipalities, and other experts outlined the preparations being made to ensure readiness in the event of a crisis.
Food Supply Is Secure
"Austria's food supply is currently secure. We owe this to our farmers, the food processing industry, the food retail sector, as well as well-functioning value chains and open borders. Especially in challenging times, transparency and reliable data are essential. We have already been informing the affected industries, business representatives, and the federal provinces about the impact of the war on the agricultural and food sectors. Going forward, we will also regularly inform the public about food supply security through reports to the Council of Ministers," emphasized Minister of Agriculture Norbert Totschnig.
Reliable Energy Supply
The electricity stress test conducted by the Austrian Power Grid (APG) demonstrates that Austria has a reliable and secure energy supply and remains resilient even during a challenging winter. Overall, the risk of electricity shortages is considered very low and highly unlikely.
Food Retail Sector Is Well Prepared
In coordination with the Austrian Federal Association of Food Retailers within the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, the country's major food retailers have agreed on a standardized procedure for the unlikely event of a blackout:
- Day 1: All stores will initially remain closed to allow the necessary emergency preparations to be completed.
- Day 2: Between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., stores operated by SPAR, INTERSPAR, Maximarkt, BILLA, PENNY, ADEG, Sutterlüty, HOFER, Lidl, Nah & Frisch, Unimarkt, and MPreis will distribute bags containing mixed fresh food products. For logistical reasons, customers will not be able to choose the contents. Pre-packed food and beverage bags will also be available for purchase against cash payment only. These may include bottled water, long-life bread, canned goods, ready-to-eat meals, and candles. Baby products and hygiene items will also be available upon request. Distribution will take place outside the stores. Entering the stores or selecting products individually will not be possible during the emergency.
- From Day 3 onward: For food safety reasons, only non-perishable dry goods may be distributed.
The distribution process will be organized in close cooperation with Austria's cities and municipalities, which are key partners in local emergency management. Both the Austrian Association of Cities and the Austrian Association of Municipalities were involved in developing the blackout contingency plan.
As before, the public is advised to maintain an emergency household food supply sufficient for 14 days. In addition, the Austrian National Bank recommends keeping approximately €100 in cash per family member, preferably in small denominations (for example Euro 5 and Euro 10 banknotes), at home for emergency situations.
